Over the past two years I have sat in on conversations about how bike shops are struggling because of on-line sales and such. I know there is something to that. Most businesses are feeling that pinch. I usually order my components from Amazon and do my own work. It's cheaper.

But I stopped in one of the local bike shops in my area a couple of days ago. Basically I was wanting to look at some stems and seat posts. The ones on my bike are black, and I would like to change them to silver. Why not buy local for a change?

So I stopped at a local LBS, wheeled the bike in, and explained what I wanted. The person I was talking too wanted to know why I wanted a different stem and seat post. So I explained it to him.

His response was to wave me off and say "I'd just leave it way it is and just ride it."

Wow. His first was to assume that I really cared what he would do. It is my bike, and if I want to change my stem and seat post, that is my business. It used to be you walked into an LBS and they would be happy to show you what they had on hand, or at least offer to order it. You could spend a bit of time chatting about the advantages of one over another.... It was called "customer service" and it generated loyalty.

And so I left without purchasing anything. I did need some spokes and cables as well.... didn't buy those either.

If local bike shops are struggling because of internet sales, I don't see it. If they can wave off a potential $100 or so worth of sales just like that, then they are doing just fine.

Once I got home I ordered what I wanted from Amazon. All to be delivered in 2 days. And I probably saved $30 in the process. Oh well!

Ok, rant off. Coffee anyone?